Calico Scallop (also known as the Dwarf Scallop)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Argopecten, Species: A. gibbus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan-shaped
Species
Argopecten gibbus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan-shaped
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in length and width, which is average for this small species. Adults typically range from 1 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Whitish or cream base with mottled splashes of orange, reddish-brown, and yellow forming a calico pattern near the hinge area. The colors appear natural and slightly worn. The interior is white with a purplish tint near the hinge.
Rarity
Very Common, frequently washes up on beaches throughout its range.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal waters, bays, and offshore sandy or shell-gravel bottoms, often associated with seagrass beds. Marine environment.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Description
A charming, small fan-shaped bivalve with roughly 18-20 distinct, rounded radial ribs. The shell is nearly equilateral with slight unequal ears at the hinge. Its surface is textured with fine growth lines crossing the ribs.
Key Features
Rounded radial ribs (typically 18 to 22), relatively small size, slightly asymmetrical ears at the hinge, and distinctive mottled orange/brown calico coloration.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial or monetary value. Commonly found in shell shops and collected as a beginner shell, though prized for colorful displays or craft projects.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good condition. Shows minor wear and slight fading along the margins, but remains structurally intact as a single valve. Collectibility grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
Unlike most bivalves, calico scallops are capable of swimming short distances by rapidly clapping their valves together to expel water, using a series of tiny blue eyes along their mantle edge to detect motion.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important prey species for fish, crabs, and sea birds. Filter feeders that help maintain water clarity in coastal ecosystems.
Similar Species
Atlantic Bay Scallop (Argopecten irradians), which tends to be slightly larger with flatter ribs and a more northern distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high-tide drift lines on sandy beaches in Florida and the Gulf coast, especially after storms or during low tide.